Q and A: Organizational Planning and Potential Changes at the Graduate School of Education and Human Development

Following the Provost’s announcement about organizational planning for GSEHD, we have received thoughtful questions from members of our community who care deeply about the school. We hope the responses below address common questions and provide clarity as the process continues.

We will update this page on a regular basis with additional questions and answers and more information as it becomes available.

Last Updated: July 24, 2025

   General Overview Questions:

Why is GSEHD undergoing this organizational planning process?

This process is a response to a variety of headwinds affecting the education sector and enrollment that have arisen in recent years. There is volatility in the higher education sector which has affected many schools of education, including GSEHD, and has resulted in declining enrollment numbers, financial pressure, and uncertainty.

What are some of the organizational options under consideration?

Organizational options under consideration include, but are not limited to, a strategic review of course schedules, program structures, and faculty and administrative roles and responsibilities. GSEHD leadership and the broader GSEHD community will be engaged in these efforts, as appropriate.

What is the timeline for these efforts? When will I learn more about possible changes?

This process has begun and will continue throughout the next academic year and into the future. We will update this webpage on an ongoing basis as new information becomes available, in addition to sharing messages via email when necessary. 

   Student Questions:

Will my program be shut down? And if so, will I be able to finish my degree?

Students who start a degree program and remain in active status will be able to complete their degree. Our top priority remains the integrity of your academic experience.

Will course offerings change?

It is possible that some course offerings will change in the future. Your faculty advisors will help you navigate any future course offering changes to ensure that you are able to fulfill your program requirements. Courses for the fall 2025 semester have been published and, as always, are subject to cancellation based on course enrollment and curricular priorities. 

Will this process affect how long it takes me to finish my degree?  

This fall, programs will examine the potential impact of any changes on time to degree. The time to degree may depend on whether you are a full-time or part-time student and the specific program. Faculty and staff will work to keep students informed and supported as plans evolve.

I heard some non-tenure faculty contracts were not renewed. Can you tell me why specific faculty contracts were not renewed?

The decisions were made due to the financial climate and not related to faculty performance. 

I am a doctoral student who has been conducting dissertation research with a faculty member (e.g., dissertation chairperson or doctoral advisor). What will happen to my dissertation research if that faculty member is no longer at GSEHD? 

You will have the opportunity to engage with other faculty members on research if your faculty advisor or dissertation chairperson, or any member of your dissertation committee, is no longer at GW. Opportunities to continue to engage with departing faculty members may vary based on individual student and departing faculty consideration.

I have a Graduate Assistantship (GA). What happens if my supervising faculty member leaves the university?

If your supervisor leaves the university, you will have a new supervisor assigned and retain your funding according to the terms outlined in your award. The research you are working on might shift depending on your new assignment, but you will still have your assistantship and the tuition support that comes with it. Award renewal is contingent on performance, degree progress, and available funding.

What do organizational changes within GSEHD mean for professional staff support that will be available to me as a student, such as career services and academic advising?

GSEHD will evaluate staff roles and responsibilities in the context of the adjustments, along with all other options. Any adjustments to faculty/staff roles will be done thoughtfully to make sure you still have the support you need to further your academic and professional success.

How will organizational changes and financial pressures affect the availability of funding for current and prospective students?

We do not currently anticipate changes in available student funding for AY25-26. GSEHD will continue to evaluate student funding to support our commitment to making GSEHD accessible to current and prospective students while achieving financial stability.

I met with a faculty member that I really liked before deciding to enroll at GSEHD for the fall semester. Will they be here for the entirety of my program?

GSEHD is committed to continuity and quality in advising, mentorship, instruction, and career support for all students. Faculty transitions happen for a variety of reasons, and we work to ensure that students have strong support and access to faculty expertise throughout their programs.

What does this mean for the quality of the programs and the reputation/value of my degree?

Universities work hard to maintain academic standards and accreditation regardless of internal changes. Your program’s quality shouldn't diminish. In fact, resources may be concentrated to strengthen what's offered.

As for the reputation and value of your degree, employers typically consider the overall credibility of the institution, the skills you’ve gained, and your individual achievements. You will still have a degree from the George Washington University, and your education and accomplishments still hold great value.

Why should I still consider GSEHD for my graduate education during a time of change and transition?

Here’s why GSEHD may still be the right choice for you:

• Commitment to Quality: Even during times of transition, we’re deeply committed to maintaining the academic rigor and professional relevance of our programs. Faculty and staff are working hard to ensure your education remains strong and well-supported.
• Student-Centered Focus: You won’t be lost in the shuffle here. We prioritize advising, mentorship, and flexibility to help you succeed—even when things are changing around you.
• Real-World Relevance: Some of these shifts are actually about strengthening our alignment with what’s happening in various fields and career opportunities. We want your degree to reflect where education, leadership, and policy are going—not just where they’ve been.
• Network and Reputation: GSEHD has a long-standing reputation and an active alumni network, locally and globally. Your degree comes with a name and a network that opens doors.
   

    Faculty & Staff Questions:

Additional resources for faculty and staff are available on myGW.

Communication and Contact Information

GSEHD leadership is actively developing plans for community engagement and discussions of questions, concerns and ideas for the future. While we finalize these plans, you may submit additional questions, feedback or concerns using the form below, and submissions will be routed to the appropriate team/unit for review. 

Please note that we may anonymously post your question(s)/comment(s)/concern(s) on this site, as the responses may be helpful for others. 

For program specific questions, please contact your faculty advisor, program director, or student success coach.